Ayurvedic Remedies for Lung Cancer

Lung cancer refers to the development of malignant tumors in the lungs. It is often considered to be the leading cause of death among men and women. The mortality rates are pretty high in this form of cancer. That is why, one needs to catch the symptoms early and treat the disease as early as possible for long-lasting relief.  Alternative therapies including Ayurveda, have garnered attention, as they provide a holistic viewpoint on the management of this disease. Ayurvedic remedies for lung cancer involve the use of Ayurvedic herbs and healing therapies. Specific lifestyle modifications are also a major part of Ayurvedic treatment of lung cancer.

Causes

• Smoking tobacco
• Prolonged exposure to secondhand smoke
• Exposing yourself to hazardous chemicals like asbestos, uranium, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, nickel, etc.

Symptoms

Symptoms of lung cancer can include:

• Persistent cough
• Chest pain 
• Shortness of breath 
• Wheezing 
• Coughing up blood 
• Feeling very tired all the time 
• Weight loss with no known cause 
• Hoarseness 
• Trouble swallowing 
• Swelling in the face and/or veins in the neck 

Understanding Lung Cancer in Ayurveda

In Ayurveda, lung cancer is considered to be a manifestation of the disturbance in Kapha and Vata doshas. Kapha imbalance may result in abnormal growth, while Vata aggravation disrupts the normal functioning of the body functions. The Ayurvedic approach to treating lung cancer works on identifying the root cause behind the disease. Ayurveda, then, addresses lung cancer through a combination of detoxification, herbal remedies, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle modifications.

Ayurvedic Remedies for Lung Cancer: Herbs

Herbs that are used to treat lung cancer in Ayurveda are:

• Ashwagandha: A potent adaptogen, Ashwagandha adapts to bodily needs and treats the symptoms of lung cancer effectively. Ashwagandha has anti-inflammatory properties that contain inflammation in the lung tissues. It also our bodies to cope with stress effectively that accompanies lung cancer.
• Turmeric: Curcumin in turmeric possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Using this herb in your daily meals helps manage the growth of cancerous cells in the lungs. Turmeric is a powerful antioxidant as well. It helps reduce oxidative stress in the body.
• Tulsi (Holy Basil): Tulsi is long revered for having its ability to detoxify the lungs. It supports good lung health by cleansing our lungs and supporting their overall health.
• Vasaka (Adhatoda vasica): This potent Ayurvedic herb eases symptoms such as coughing and breathlessness in lung cancer patients.

The herbs discussed above are quite effective in treating the symptoms associated with lung cancer. However, do not self-medicate. Always consult with your healthcare provider before consuming any herb or medicine to treat any disease.

Ayurvedic Remedies for Lung Cancer: Panchakarma Therapy

Panchakarma is one of the most powerful detoxification therapies in Ayurveda. It eliminates toxins and promotes inner healing in lung cancer patients. It is also an effective tool for restoring the doshic balance in the body. Panchakarma treatments like Virechana (purgation) and Nasya (nasal therapy) help boost lung functions and clear the nasal passage.

Ayurvedic Remedies for Lung Cancer: Prevention Strategies

1. Avoid Toxins: Prolonged exposure to tobacco smoke, environmental pollutants, and harmful chemicals is one of the major causes of lung cancer. You must avoid exposing yourself to such toxins for long.
2. Pranayama (Breathing Exercises): Regular practice of pranayama, such as Anulom Vilom and Kapalabhati has been shown to increase lung capacity. It also helps maintain Vata-Kapha balance.
3. Herbal Supplements: Herbs like Tulsi (holy basil), Turmeric, and Ashwagandha are effective in toning down inflammation in the lung cells.
4. Dietary Guidelines: Ayurveda suggests a diet rich in antioxidants, fresh fruits, and vegetables for lung cancer patients. Such diets cleanse the system and provide essential nutrients. Dairy products, fried foods, and foods that aggravate kapha should be consumed in extreme moderation by lung cancer patients, should be consumed in moderation.
5. Lifestyle Practices: Yoga asanas like Bhujangasana (cobra pose) and Ardha Matsyendrasana (half spinal twist) may help in strengthening the functions of your lungs. Meditation and mindfulness practices are effective in reducing stress in lung cancer patients. However, do Yoga asanas under the guidance of a Yoga teacher and never over-exert yourself.

Conclusion

Ayurvedic treatment for lung cancer has earned the admiration of many over the past few years, as it provides lung cancer patients with a holistic framework for addressing their symptoms. With the incorporation of herbal remedies, dietary practices, and lifestyle changes, Ayurveda can help those battling this disease. If you suspect any of the symptoms mentioned above, consulting with a healthcare provider early is strongly recommended. Early treatment improves your prognosis massively.